EDS Opens New Executive Office

EDS (EDS) created an Office of the Chief Operating Officer to go with its existing Office of the Chairman.

The Plano, Texas, information technology outfit said the move will increase alignment and drive change throughout its business operations.

The Office of the Chairman, which comprises CEO Mike Jordan and President Jeff Heller, will continue to oversee all functions of the enterprise. The Office of the COO, which comprises Steve Schuckenbrock, promoted to co-COO and executive vice president of Global Sales & Client Solutions, and Ron Rittenmeyer, promoted to co-COO and executive vice president of Global Service Delivery, will report to the Office of the Chairman with responsibility for the company's client-facing operating units and Service Delivery Centers.

"Jeff's leadership on significant change initiatives and his in-depth knowledge of the company and the industry will continue to drive EDS' progress and competitiveness," Jordan said. "The formation of the Office of the COO officially recognizes the roles now being played by Steve and Ron and provides a focus for business alignment throughout the organization.

"In essence, our global functional organization will become more integrated into business units," Jordan added. "Linking sales and delivery is the next logical step in providing the best solutions to our clients through a more streamlined, efficient organization."

All other functions currently reporting to Jordan and Heller, including Portfolio Management, Finance, Legal, Human Resources and Communications, will continue to report to the Office of the Chairman.